The Top 6 Philippine Coins Worth Serious Money—See Which Ones Made the List

The coins of the Philippines provide a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history, reflecting its colonial past and journey to independence. These coins, especially rare ones, have become highly sought after by collectors. But which ones are the most valuable? How can you spot them, and what are they worth today? Let’s dive into the top 6 rarest Philippine coins that have fetched impressive prices at auction.

Most Valuable Philippine Coins

1. US-Philippines 1907 Proof Peso

The US-Philippines 1907 Proof Peso is one of the rarest Philippine coins. A proof coin is a specially made coin that was never meant to be circulated as currency. These coins were often produced in very limited quantities and kept in currency archives.

This coin was produced in the United States as part of a series of bi-national coins from 1903 to 1908. It features Lady Liberty on one side and an eagle on a shield on the other. Only two 1907 proof pesos exist, and one sold privately for nearly $1 million in 2018.

2. US-Philippines 1907-S Peso PCGS MS66

Although proof coins are highly prized, mint state coins are also highly collectible. A 1907-S peso, graded MS66 by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), is an excellent example. An MS66 grade means the coin is in mint condition with only minor marks.

The San Francisco mint produced 10 million US-Philippine pesos in 1907, but high-quality coins are rare. Only a few have earned an MS66 grade, making this one of the most valuable pesos. It sold for $15,600 at auction in 2019.

3. U.S. Philippines 1918-S Allen-4.08b Mule MS64

This 1918-S peso is another example of a mint state coin with a grading of MS64. However, what makes this coin particularly special is that it’s a “mule.” A mule coin has a design mismatch, pairing images not usually found together. The obverse shows the 20 centavo design, while the reverse features the 5 centavo design.

This rare error makes the coin highly collectible. In 2014, it was auctioned off for $41,125, including the buyer’s premium.

4. US-Philippine 1906-S Peso PCGS AU58

The 1906-S peso is rare due to its limited circulation. The American Treasury melted down many of these coins to create smaller, cheaper versions. As a result, few 1906 pesos remain today. This particular coin was graded AU58, meaning it was circulated but remains in good condition. Only eight coins of better quality are known.

This example sold for $43,200 at auction in 2020.

5. US-Philippines 1905-S Peso Allen-16.06 Curved Serif PCGS MS64

In 1905, the US-Philippines peso came in two varieties. One version features a “curved serif” on the number “1” in the date. This version is highly collectible, especially in mint condition. After the Japanese invasion of the Philippines, many people buried their coins, which often led to their degradation.

Despite these challenges, this coin was in excellent condition. When auctioned in January 2022, it sold for $60,000.

6. US-Philippines 1905-S Peso Allen-16.06 Straight Serif PCGS MS63

The 1905-S peso with a “straight serif” on the “1” is even rarer than its curved serif counterpart. However, this coin was graded slightly lower at MS63. Collectors highly value quality, and although this coin is rare, it didn’t sell for as much as the MS64 curved serif version.

This MS63 example sold for $43,200 in 2020.

Table of Most Valuable Philippine Coins

Coin NameYearGradeAuction Price
US-Philippines 1907 Proof Peso1907Proof$1,000,000
US-Philippines 1907-S Peso PCGS MS661907MS66$15,600
U.S. Philippines 1918-S Mule MS641918MS64$41,125
US-Philippine 1906-S Peso PCGS AU581906AU58$43,200
US-Philippines 1905-S Curved Serif MS641905MS64$60,000
US-Philippines 1905-S Straight Serif MS631905MS63$43,200

TT HOME

FAQ’s

What makes the 1907 proof peso so valuable?

It’s one of only two surviving proofs from 1907, making it extremely rare.

What does “MS” mean in coin grading?

“MS” stands for “Mint State,” indicating the coin is in uncirculated condition.

Why are mule coins considered rare?

Mule coins feature mismatched designs that weren’t supposed to appear together, making them highly collectible.

Leave a Comment